The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin

[DDay6670]

Very good book. Really learned about Charles Lindberg's aviation accomplishments. And of his treatment of his wife Anne Morrow. Anne Morrow is revealed as an accomplished aviatrix who assists Charles in his many achievements. The story of the kidnapping of their baby is also a stressor and life changer for both of them. I had no idea that the book would have so much information on early aviation in America and the Lindberg's contribution. Also, has information about Charles's political views on Germany before WWII and the results of his work with Germany. The book is fiction but with much fact based information. If you are looking for a little bit of historical history, you should read this book.

[therhinofam]

I love a great work of historical fiction and The Aviator's Wife is high on my list of favorites. The book depicts the life of Anne Morrow Lindberg, wife to famed aviator Charles Lindberg. When the two meet, Charles is the most eligible bachelor in the world but is rather reserved and quiet. Believing Charles will take a better liking to Anne's sister, Anne doesn't actively try to woo Lindberg. Rather, he seems to be draw to her for her fearless yet calm nature. The two soon wed, but the honeymoon proves that life with Charles Lindberg will not be smooth sailing. He has certain expectations and seems rather cold and distant.

The story weaves through time and tragedy and displays the constant strains that are put on the marriage. The kidnapping of their child and the prying eyes of the media, lead the family to move to Germany during Hitler's rule. While the book speaks of Charles Lindberg's political views, for the family the time in Germany seemed to be a breath of fresh air - miles separated them from their loss and the controlled media of Nazi Germany allowed them freedoms not awarded them in the states. Lindberg's own controlling behavior begins to stifle his accomplished wife, putting further distance between the two.

The distance and control eventually erode away at the relationship until is resembles nothing of what it once was. Yet, the two share a history together that no one else, but the two of them, can understand. The aviator's wife accomplished many great things in her life and has left behind a legacy of strength, grace, and fortitude. Her story is one worth reading.

[Blair]

The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin was my first introduction to historical fiction. I typically read non-fiction however I enjoyed this book immensely. Most people are familiar with Charles Lindbergh and the Lindbergh baby, but Benjamin's book gives us insight to what it was like behind the scenes, as Anne Morrow, the wife of the famous aviator. The Lindbergh's were a family of celebrities before social media. They endured their own sort of paparazzi, even through the most unimaginable times. Benjamin provides historical facts surrounded by her own impressions of what words were spoken and how the events were dealt with. Her book is a quick read but keeps the reader entertained throughout. I would recommend this book to any type of reader as it has almost all bases covered.

[Mother]

I had to get this book when it came out, because it made me think of my grandmother, who was a fan of Lindbergh back when he was all the news. There's something about the story of the woman "behind" the man back in those days that really gets me. This gave readers a viewpoint we don't often see when it comes to famous people. We always get their story, but the people who stand by them - especially spouses - are so much more interesting. I loved the exploration of the Lindberghs' relationship and how they often adventured together. The tension between Charles and Anne was definitely compelling, and I remember crying more than a few times when I read it. Even though Charles is portrayed as very quiet, I feel like he loved Anne very much until they both simply grew apart. I know I'll return to this book again in the near future.